Former North Haven coach pleads guilty to sexually abusing minor

ROCKLAND, Maine — The former North Haven boys basketball coach pleaded guilty Monday to having a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl.

Ryan Lantagne, 27, pleaded guilty in Knox County Superior Court to two counts of sexual abuse of a minor.

The agreement reached between the district attorney’s office and defense calls for Lantagne to serve up to six months in jail. The deal calls for four years in jail with all but up to six months suspended. The six months is a cap and the defense will be able to argue for less time when he is sentenced later this year. He will also be placed on probation for four years.

He was arrested in March after the grandmother of the victim reported to police that she found a journal in which the girl discussed her relationship with Lantagne.

The Knox County Sheriff’s Office investigated and found both still photographs and videos taken by him with his phone, according to District Attorney Geoffrey Rushlau.

The sexual relationship occurred in 2012, according to the prosecutor.

Lantagne previously had coached the North Haven boys basketball team. Lantagne resigned before the team’s tournament appearance in early 2012.

Lantagne will have to register as a sex offender for his entire life as a result of the convictions.

To reach a sexual assault advocate, call the Statewide Sexual Assault Crisis and Support Line at 800-871-7741, TTY 888-458-5599. This free and confidential 24-hour service is accessible